How hydrogen is powering the future of sustainable aviation
Stralis SA-1-HE aircraft design on tarmac
Flights connect people, businesses and economies around the world – it’s an essential part of modern life. But there’s no getting around the fact that aviation is a major polluter. Right now, air travel comprises approximately 2.5% of global CO₂ emissions. With demand for flights expected to triple by 2050, these emissions are only set to climb.
The industry needs a cleaner way to fly.
Technology will play a major role in decarbonising the aviation industry, and hydrogen is set to be a significant part of that future. Here’s how it enters the picture.
There are two interesting pathways where hydrogen can make a difference:
in fuel cells, powering electric planes
as a feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Hydrogen technology isn’t just a future concept – it’s already being explored by leading manufacturers. Stralis Aircraft is developing long-range hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, working towards fuel cell planes that could reshape regional air travel.
Zero-emission aircraft designer AMSL Aero is currently exploring hydrogen refuelling infrastructure options to support its ambitious aircraft – Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) vehicles designed to be the world’s most efficient eVTOLs. Its unique tilting wing design allows for both helicopter-style take-off and plane-like horizontal flight.
This will pave the way for zero-emission flights across Queensland and at The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Nearby their facilities at Archerfield Airport, our hydrogen power bank is gathering critical data, with the potential to support sustainable aviation technologies like these designs in the future.
Let’s explore each of these emerging solutions in more detail to see how they can support the industry to take off towards a more sustainable, low-emissions future.
Hydrogen-powered electric aircraft
Hydrogen-powered electric aircrafts are emerging as a viable option for decarbonising the industry, especially for short to medium-range flights. Unlike traditional planes, these ones don’t burn fuel. They use hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, which powers an electric motor to turn the propellers. The only by-product is water vapour!
Batteries vs. fuel cells
Importantly to note, not all electric aircraft use hydrogen. Some use batteries (like electric cars). The thing is, batteries can impact the weight and range of a plane.
Hydrogen fuel cells, on the other hand, are typically lighter and pack more energy. This makes them a more practical choice for shorter flights. (Think: regional flights, cargo transport, air taxis.)
Challenges
Of course, there are challenges for implementing hydrogen-powered planes. They must be designed to support liquid hydrogen storage, plus there needs to be appropriate infrastructure to support refuelling.
The good news is: major aviation companies are exploring infrastructure options and testing hydrogen-powered prototypes - such as Stralis Aircraft, AMSL Aero and Dovetail Electric Aviation.
2. Hydrogen in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) will play a role in decarbonising long-haul flights, but it is a more complex, large-scale solution that will take time to roll out. In contrast, hydrogen fuel cell aviation is already emerging as a faster, more flexible pathway, particularly for shorter-range aircraft.
Part of what makes SAF appealing is its compatibility with today’s aircraft and infrastructure. It can be used in existing jet engines without modification, because although it’s made from renewable sources, SAFs replicate the chemistry of standard petroleum-based fuels and power aircraft engines in the same way.
As such, there’s no need to redesign jet engines or rebuild airports. SAF can act as a drop-in replacement for traditional jet fuel, with a much smaller carbon footprint.
Where does hydrogen come in?
“SAF” is a broad category covering low-carbon aviation fuels. It can be made from different sources, including biofuels and hydrogen-based fuels.
Green hydrogen has the potential to be a key ingredient in producing SAF. When it is combined with captured carbon, it forms a synthetic liquid fuel that can be burned in existing jet engines. The result? Fewer fossil fuels, lower emissions, and a fuel that airlines can start using at scale.
Note: SAF still relies on combustion, so it’s not a zero-emissions solution. But it’s still a practical one, particularly for long-haul flights where batteries or hydrogen fuel cells aren’t yet viable.
That’s why the aviation industry is scaling up SAF production now, with hydrogen playing a critical role
Challenges
If you’re wondering: if SAF is a viable drop-in replacement for traditional jet fuels, why isn’t it being widely used? It’s a good question.
The main reasons it is not used more widely is due to its 1) limited availability, and 2) higher cost. Hurdles like these are part and parcel with any major sustainability transition. It typically takes time, investment and collaboration to shift from traditional systems to cleaner alternatives.
Technology partners, manufacturers and governments are currently working towards addressing these challenges.
Singapore, for instance, plans to mandate a minimum of 1% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend for all outbound flights starting in 2026, with the target rising to 3-5% by 2030.
Alternative feedstocks (like organic waste) are being explored, but making green hydrogen more affordable and accessible will create a turning point for the industry. As hydrogen tech continues to mature and scale, we can expect costs to come down and supply to become more competitive.
A cleaner way to fly
While there's no silver bullet, hydrogen fuel cell technology is emerging as one of the most viable near-term pathways for decarbonising aviation. Whether it’s powering next-gen electric aircraft for regional flights, or paving the way for sustainable fuels, hydrogen is supporting the industry as a cleaner way to fly.
Of course, there are still technical and economic hurdles to overcome. But as more airports, airlines, and tech providers get on board (and with early-stage projects like our hydrogen power bank at Archerfield Airport helping lay the groundwork), the future of sustainable aviation is within reach.